Birstall lose out in Wheatley Cup final

Andrew Hunt

Birstall Seconds failed in their bid to lift the Wheatley Cup as they suffered a 21-run defeat to Carlton in last Sunday’s final at Wakefield Thornes.

Carlton lost opener Daniel Sampson, caught behind by young wicketkeeper Joseph Woodhouse off the bowling of Adam Holroyd

Gary Close came to the crease and produced a splendid innings of 80.

Close lost opener Darren Read for 19, caught by Woodhouse off the bowling of Alex Drake, but he then shared a 74-run partnership with Thomas Schofield to set the platform for a decent score.

Close fell for 80, from 81 balls, having hit 10 fours as he became the first of Sean Twohig’s three victims.

Schofield hit five fours and a six on his way to 55 and there was little respite for the Birstall bowlers as Richard Sykes made 43 from 33 balls and Nick Busby then clattered 27 not out from just 15 balls, including four fours and a six, as Carlton closed on 242-5 from their 40 overs.